Sissy’s Log Cabin

Originating from Pine Bluff, AR, Sissy’s Log Cabin is a small family-owned jeweler of the highest quality and utmost service.  As the company expands operations across the South-East region, the new Memphis store presented an opportunity to establish a prototype for additional locations.  The building occupies an out-parcel of a larger retail center, and as such, it has exposure on all four sides.  The southern façade fronts a busy thoroughfare and is aligned close to the sidewalk while the western face fronts a large, existing parking area.  These two conditions presented opportunities for openness and transparency within the façade, admitting daylight into a retail type that is typically closed down and inward focused.  The large windows are protected from sun exposure via framed projections and visors extending from the face of the building as well as a long entry canopy running along the western face.  Unlike the company name, the building maintains no linkage to the original log cabin from which it began, preferring a contemporary design of stone, wood siding, and stucco.  Interiors are bright and voluminous with an abundance of natural light and rich materials.  Individual brand showrooms form the perimeter of the two primary facades with loose diamonds and custom jewelry occupying the central spaces.  Administrative offices and service spaces wrap the two remaining facades and form a neutral backdrop to the visual activity contained within.  designshop served as the architect-of-record and worked closely with Balaity Property Enhancement and Nelson Architectural Group as the atmospheric designer and owner’s rep respectively.